BROWN BLOWS WHISTLE ON COIN THROWERS

HIBS face an SPL probe into two coin-throwing incidents during the Edinburgh derby.

Match delegate Craig Brown has mentioned the cases, one in each half, in his report to SPL bosses.

At least four coins were thrown from the Roseburn Stand, which housed the Hibs fans, during the Dean Shiels penalty incident.

Hearts midfielder Paul Hartley also appeared to be struck by a coin thrown by a visiting fan as he prepared to take a corner in the first half.

However, Brown has also reported several incidents of good sportsmanship, which included Hartley's low-key reaction to the incident in which he was involved.

Rob Jones was also praised for his peacemaking role at the Shiels incident and at the end of the game when Chris Killen moved in on Christophe Berra, who was accused of gesturing at Hibs fans.

Meanwhile, the former Scotland boss reckons our game could learn from Serie A and avoid future penalty flashpoints.

Brown, who works as a summariser on Italian football for Bravo and Setanta, says their system of dealing with penalties is the way forward.

He said: "A circular was sent around Italian clubs warning players face yellow cards for following the ball into the net after a penalty has been scored.

"Only de fending players are allowed to take the ball from the net once the spot-kick has been scored. I believe it's an idea with great merit."

Taken from the Daily Record